Web designers who set up local SEO tools for clients without an SEO background are adding a revenue line that most design shops overlook. The full setup takes under 15 minutes. This guide covers every step: choosing the right tools, entering API keys, managing client credentials, and enabling white-label reports so the client sees your brand, not the plugin’s.
If you have not installed F! Insights yet, start with the F! Insights setup guide before continuing. The sections below assume the plugin is installed and activated.
In This Article
Which local SEO tools can a web designer set up?
F! Insights includes five tools configured from one WordPress admin panel:
| Tool | What it does | Setup time |
|---|---|---|
| GBP audit scanner | Shortcode form — visitors scan any GBP and receive a scored 8-category report | 2 min (shortcode on page) |
| Bulk prospect scanner | Upload CSV of business names; plugin scores all overnight | 0 (runs from dashboard) |
| Lead capture dashboard | Every scanner submission creates a lead record in your WP database | Automatic with scanner |
| AI review response templates | Tone-matched responses for any star rating; push direct to GBP | 0 (client connects GBP) |
| GBP post cadence engine | Generate and schedule a 4-week rolling post queue per client | 0 (client connects GBP) |
Once the plugin is set up, you can also add a GBP audit scanner to your WordPress site for inbound lead capture from the same tool without adding a second platform.
What does the full setup process look like?
- Install the F! Insights plugin zip via Plugins > Add New > Upload Plugin.
- Activate and go to F! Insights > Settings > API Config.
- Enter your Google Places API key and Anthropic API key. Click Save.
- Create a new WordPress page and paste the shortcode
- Publish the page and run one test scan to confirm the scanner works.
Each client gets their own workspace inside the plugin with a separate GBP connection, billing subscription, and lead pipeline. Managing multiple clients from one WordPress install adds no hosting or admin overhead. For designers scaling this into a full service line, see how to manage local SEO for multiple clients without new hires.
Do clients need their own API keys?
Two modes cover different workflows:
- Designer uses their own keys: Covers all prospecting and outreach. You run bulk scans, generate outreach emails, and capture inbound leads from your scanner page. The client is never involved.
- Client connects via Google OAuth: Covers fulfillment. The client authorizes their GBP through a one-click OAuth flow inside the plugin. From that point, you push GBP posts, review responses, and profile updates directly to their listing. No credential sharing on either side.
How does white-labeling work for client reports?
On the paid plan, the designer’s logo, brand colors, and business name appear on all client-facing reports and outreach emails. The scanner widget on your site also reflects your branding. The white-label layer is client-facing only: the WordPress admin panel retains the plugin’s own name. Clients see your brand; you see the plugin backend.
What WordPress requirements do you need?
Standard shared hosting works. No VPS, dedicated server, or custom server configuration is required. The plugin runs on any WordPress installation with PHP 7.4 or higher. If your client already has a WordPress site, you can install the plugin there as a fulfillment layer for their GBP management.